What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time and can be a frequent household problem. It’s unpleasant messy and uninspiring and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always need to call an emergency plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll take you through some simple steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved using simple tools and techniques like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we begin it’s important to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close the valve for water flow.
The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is shutting off the valve for water flow that is behind the toilet. This will ensure that no water can enter the tank as you attempt to clear it. The valve is normally located near in the middle of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria that may be present in your toilet with rubber gloves prior to making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most efficient tool for clearing toilets of blockages. Begin by pressing down on the plunger until air escapes from it, then press it hard over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for about 20 minutes. The suction caused by the movement of the plunger can help clear any obstructions.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled motion.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if they are close enough to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mix.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working Try this method to pour half a mug of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. It may fizz but when it ceases to fizz you can pour hot water down (not boiling) to remove the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar techniques have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the time to employ an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s cord until you have a thin, long wire with a hook bent at one end. You can also use your plumbing snake. It is specifically designed for clearing drain blockages. Insert the tool into your toilet drain hole and then twist, turn, push at the same time until you sense resistance. this is where the blockage typically occurs. Gently try to break up any blockages using back-and-forth motion without causing damage to your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and check the result.
After you have cleared any obstructions, it’s vital to turn on the supply of water that is behind your toilet. After that, flush it a few times to make sure everything flows freely now!
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Rubber Gloves | Hand protection from potential bacteria or germs present in the toilet bowl. |
| Plunger | Most effective tool for clearing up blocked toilets. Press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl and plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. |
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Mixture to use if plunging doesn’t work. Pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes, then pour hot water down (not boiling) to flush out the blockage. |
| Wire Coat Hanger or Plumbing Snake | Tools to use if both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed. Straighten the wire coat hanger until you have a long thin wire with a hook bent at one end or use the plumbing snake, which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. |
FAQs
How can I tell whether my toilet is clogged?
One of the most obvious indications of a toilet that is blocked is when the water level rises to the top of the bowl after flushing. You may also notice that water drains away slowly, or you might hear noises of gurgling coming from the toilet.
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, turn off water flow at the valve in front of the toilet and use a plunger to try to clear any obstructions. If this doesn’t work contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
How can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many actions you can take to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. These include avoiding flushing non-degradable items such as sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Also, avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact a professional plumber for the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet but it still doesn’t clear or you believe there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s time to get in touch with a professional plumber like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve had years of experience tackling any plumbing problem and are able to quickly identify and fix any issues with the least disturbance to the home.
Do I need to get my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get the drains cleaned out by a professional such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system in good working order. If, however, you often have problems with drains blocking or slow draining water, despite trying to avoid clogging the drains, then annual cleaning can be beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to execute in the majority of cases, and these products are easily available in homes. When facing blocked toilets before panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re in search of professional assistance with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Save You Money in the Long Run
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
